Barcelona midfielder Rodri is reportedly determined to recover from his injury in time to feature against his former club, Manchester City, when the two sides meet in the UEFA Champions League on December 8.

According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday, November 7, 2026, the Spanish international is optimistic about completing his rehabilitation before the highly anticipated encounter at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Barcelona secured the signing of the 30-year-old from Manchester City during the summer after facing competition from Real Madrid for his services. Since arriving in Catalonia, Rodri has established himself as an important member of Hansi Flick's midfield, with the manager valuing his experience, composure and ability to control the pace of games.

The midfielder's importance to the team has been reflected in his involvement this season, having featured in 14 of Barcelona's 15 matches and started 11 of those appearances.

However, Barcelona suffered a setback earlier this week when Rodri picked up a muscle injury during the first half of their Champions League encounter against Aston Villa. The problem has temporarily ruled one of Flick's key midfielders out of action.

The injury is expected to sideline him for approximately four weeks, meaning he could miss several important matches while undergoing treatment and rehabilitation.

Rodri was reportedly frustrated after initially discovering the seriousness of the injury, but he has gradually accepted the situation and is now approaching his recovery with a more positive mindset.

Among the fixtures he is expected to miss are Barcelona's league meeting with Atletico Madrid and the return encounter in early December. He could also be unavailable for the match against Villarreal after the international break, alongside games against Sabah, Deportivo de La Coruña and Celta Vigo.

Despite the possibility of missing several matches, Rodri's main objective is to regain full fitness ahead of Barcelona's December 8 Champions League clash with Manchester City.

The encounter carries additional significance for the midfielder because of his successful spell at the Premier League club before completing his move to Barcelona. He is therefore eager to face his former teammates when they visit the Spotify Camp Nou.

Nevertheless, Barcelona's medical department is expected to take a cautious approach to his recovery rather than risk bringing him back before he is fully fit. The club will prioritise his long-term fitness and carefully manage his rehabilitation to prevent the injury from becoming more serious, given his importance to Flick's plans.